In the ideal classroom, all students would be provided with the best technology possible. But, often that is not the case. Therefore, when we hear about schools, who are lucky enough to have those resources, we want to know if it in fact brings success. In September, in Zeeland, Michigan, every high schooler in the district received an apple iPad. It is used for classwork, testing and communication. After just two weeks into the program, administrators called the iPad program a game changer.
The use of technology has made education a part of the students' world, rather than being separate. In literature class, students follow a narrator who reads, The Scarlet Ibis. They are able to highlight in the ebook and students participate more directly. When studying for quizzes they use a flash card app, and students can coach each other. Since everything is now on the iPad, students can not use the excuse anymore that they have lost their paper.
When students or teachers are absent, instructional time does not need to be lost, because teachers can upload their video lessons for all students to view. They can then download assignments over wi-fi. The only downside is, that without an actual keyboard, it is hard for students to type long essays. Also, printing is limited.
The district set aside $1.3 million for the program, which comes from the $20 million bond issue voters approved last year for school improvements. In the winter, middle schoolers were supposed to receive iPads and next fall grades 3-5 will. Kindergartners through second graders will be able to use a cart of the iPads, also next fall.
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/story/2011-09-20/schools-education-ipad-students/50480836/1
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